Origins
Our work began with a single warehouse documentation project in Montreal's Griffintown neighborhood. What started as a straightforward measured drawing assignment revealed layers of construction history that challenged assumptions about industrial building methods.
That initial project led to more inquiries from developers and municipal planners who recognized the value of understanding what they were working with before making irreversible decisions. Over time, our practice evolved to serve clients across multiple provinces, each project adding to our understanding of regional construction traditions.
Methodology
We approach each structure as a technical puzzle. Construction methods vary significantly based on when and where a building was erected. A grain elevator on the prairies employs different structural logic than a textile mill in the Maritimes, even if both date from similar periods.
Our documentation process starts with observation. Before measurements or photography, we spend time understanding how a building stands up, how light moves through its spaces, and which elements appear original versus later modifications. This initial reading informs all subsequent analysis.
Current Focus
Recent projects have concentrated on early 20th century reinforced concrete structures, particularly those employing mushroom column systems. These buildings present unique challenges for adaptive reuse due to their monolithic construction and limited flexibility for new openings or structural modifications.
We also maintain an ongoing documentation archive of timber-framed warehouses throughout Ontario and Quebec, creating a reference database for future researchers and practitioners working with similar structures.
